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FEATURE GAMING

STELLAR HEROINES PLAYSTATION’S

Ever since we first stepped into the chunky polygonal boots of Lara Croft in Tomb Raider on the original PlayStation, Sony’s consoles have delivered us an array of top leading heroines. This month another joins the fray, as we meet Eve in Stellar Blade . So, we reckon it’s the perfect time to introduce her, and take a look back at some of the other amazing female protagonists who’ve starred on various PlayStation consoles over the years. Words Amy Flower

Nariko First appearance: Heavenly Sword (2007) PS3

Selene First appearance: Returnal (2021) PS5

Eve First appearance: Stellar Blade (2024) PS5

According to an ancient clan prophecy, Nariko was supposed to be a boy who would lead them to peace and prosperity. Shunned by her people, Nariko’s father taught her the ways of the warrior and, years later when our story begins properly, she proves her mettle, wielding the titular weapon in battle and bringing a certain prophecy to fruition, regardless of its great personal cost.

It’s bad enough that, after disobeying a directive, Selene Vassos finds herself stranded alone on a desolate alien planet, but then there’s the added matter that she’s now stuck in a time loop! As such, every time she’s defeated by resident extra-terrestrial beings on this planet, Atropos, she’s resurrected, allowing her to gradually piece together answers to her situation.

With Earth having been taken over after losing a war with a race of alien invaders, and survivors driven to an off-world colony, plucky warrior Eve commands a squad of soldiers with the aim of retaking the planet. With only one human city left – Xion – Eve’s blade skills are essential in assailing the invading Naytibas, and ultimately defeating them.

Kat First appearance: Gravity Rush (2012) PS Vita Imagine waking in a floating city with no recollection of who you are or why you’re there. This is the fate of young Kat, who soon learns that she has gained the power to manipulate how gravity affects her. She harnesses this power and proves to be a skilled fighter, protecting the city’s folk from a great threat, all while trying to solve the mystery of her history.

Ellie First appearance: The Last of Us (2013) PS3

Aloy First appearance: Horizon Zero Dawn (2017) PS4

In a world where a mutant fungus is turning humans into aggressive monsters, we first meet Ellie, precious cargo requiring safe passage as her apparent immunity to the infection may hold the key to human survival. While always the central character, through two main adventures she graduates to main protagonist, as her tale changes to become one of seeking revenge.

Our favourite 31st century genetic clone is a brave machine hunter, created with the purpose of stopping the rogue AI HADES from unleashing a killer plague and wiping out life as her world knows it. No pressure! Aloy’s quests see her encountering all manner of robotic beasts, which are generally no match for her skilled ways with weaponry such as bows and arrows, and spears.

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